Comparative sequence analysis of 16S-23S rRNA internal transcribed spacers of the genus Geobacillus

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to analyse sequences of 16S-23S internal transcribed spacer regions of different Geobacillus species, identify structural elements of these regions and evaluate the possibility to use these structural elements in the taxonomy of the genus Geobacillus. GEOBAC-PCR was used in order to obtain 16S-23S rRNA internal transcribed spacer sequences. Certain structural elements were identified in these sequences: the genes of tRNAIle and tRNAAla, antitermination element boxA and variable regions of different length located between tDNAAla and boxA (V1) as well as between boxA and the conservative 3’ end region of the spacer (V2). Sequence of the part of 3’ end region of 16S-23S internal transcribed spacers has been proved to be the genus signature region. A variable spacer between tRNA genes and region V1 as well as sequence of tRNAAla gene carried signature information of species and species group. Keywords: Geobacillus, Geobacillus stearothermophilus, 16S-23S rRNA internal transcribed spacer, tRNA, GEOBAC